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Presidents' Pastor Has Ministry To Millions

Former U.S. presidents George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter, with Rev. Billy Graham and Rev. Franklin Graham in front of the Billy Graham Library

Presidents' Pastor Has Ministry To Millions

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Updated: 12:09 PM EDT May 12, 2011

Rev. Billy Graham's legacy is one of faith and inspiration.

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Graham preached to more than 215 million people in person and in 185 countries. Millions more have read his books and have seen him on television.

Graham has also prayed with and counseled every American president from Harry Truman to George W. Bush.

After Barack Obama won the presidential election, Graham issued an appeal on behalf of the president-elect, saying, “I urge everyone to join me in pledging our support and prayer as he begins the difficult task ahead.”

Graham has left such a profound mark on the country’s religious history that many believe no minister will ever again be so popular with so many Americans.

His last crusade was in New York back in 2005. After that, Graham remained active and engaged as a spiritual guide mainly through his written work. He was still a big part of the planning and direction of the ministry he founded back in 1950. It is now led by his son Franklin. Franklin was appointed CEO of the ministry in 2000 and president the following year.

Graham wrote columns for a number of Christian publications, including a book based on his personal experience with growing old and how to be prepared emotionally and spiritually for what he says can be the most fulfilling years of your life.

As a pastor to presidents, Graham tried to keep his own political views private. He says he never disliked a president. His work brought both praise and criticism, though, with some saying that he allowed himself to be used for political purposes or that he failed to speak out strongly about moral crises in the White House. Graham has never officially endorsed a presidential candidate, but many say he has come very close with his praise of George W. Bush.

He spoke about his one regret: his friendship with Richard Nixon. Graham says he wished he hadn’t talked politics and world affairs with him so much.

Graham was known as an emotional preacher who stuck with a simple message about Jesus’ ability to save souls.